The Appalachian Trail Conservancy has partnered with the Smithsonian Institute to install and maintain 50 motion-sensor infrared trail cameras along a 575 mile stretch of the Appalachian Trail. The Smithsonian is using the cameras to conduct a wildlife survey to help determine the number of large mammals living in a certain area. Scientists hope the images and data collected will help them understand the effects of human encroachment on an animal’s natural habitat.
A similar project performed last year on the A.T. showed an abundance of predators like coyote, bobcat, and black bear.
For more information, go to www.appalachiantrail.org
